Polyergus lucidus
VU

Polyergus lucidus

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyergus_lucidus

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Polyergus lucidus faces significant threats from habitat fragmentation and loss of suitable nesting sites in its specialized prairie and grassland environments. The species' obligate social parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable, as it depends entirely on host Formica ant colonies for reproduction and survival. Urban development and agricultural conversion of native grasslands have reduced both the availability of suitable habitat and the density of host ant populations essential for this species' complex life cycle.

Threat summary

Habitat

Polyergus lucidus inhabits native prairie grasslands and open woodland edges across parts of North America. The species requires areas with established colonies of host Formica ants and prefers well-drained soils suitable for underground nesting.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Polyergus lucidus classified as Vulnerable?
Polyergus lucidus is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Polyergus lucidus faces significant threats from habitat fragmentation and loss of suitable nesting sites in its specialized prairie and grassland environments. The species' obligate social parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable, as it depends entirely on host Formica ant colonies for reproduction and survival. Urban development and agricultural conversion of native grasslands have reduced both the availability of suitable habitat and the density of host ant populations essential for this species' complex life cycle.
Where does Polyergus lucidus live?
Polyergus lucidus occurs in Canada, Panama, United Kingdom, and United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Polyergus lucidus?
The main threats to Polyergus lucidus are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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